Need a roof? Want it hand nailed? The choice is clear

Replacing your roof is a serious investment. A good roof should last 30 years, so it’s important to do your research before hiring someone to do the work.

Keith McGonigle, owner of Clear Choice Home Improvements, said there’s a proper way to install shingles and many companies take shortcuts.

“Most roofers use air guns to nail the shingles down because it’s quicker,” McGonigle said. “While air guns are great tools for some construction jobs, like framing or trim work, they cause too many problems when installing a roof. When installers use air guns they tend to move the gun across the shingle at a very fast pace.”

This makes it easy to miss the very narrow nailing area, which is only about ½-inch wide. If the gun isn’t held perfectly level with the nailing surface, the nail will be driven in at an angle. Angled nails do not permit the shingle to seal properly and allow wind to get underneath it.

Additional problems with nail guns include over- and under-driven nails and crooked nails.

Clear Choice Home Improvements installs shingles the correct way by hand nailing each shingle to ensure a solid connection between the nail and the shingle.

Insurance companies have been known to turn down claims for improperly installed roofs. “Improper installation voids the shingle warranty and is not covered by the manufacturer,” McGonigle said. “Hand-driven nails are set flush because the hammer is larger than the nail. Over-driven nails hold nothing.

“The vast majority of roofs with shingles blown off are air-gunned roofs, not hand nailed,” he added. “There is only one right way to put on a roof, and hand nailing is the best way.”

It does not cost more to hand nail a roof. All hand nailing requires is a lot of experience. Roofers that hand nail are hard to find, but worth the effort.

The company’s roofing installer has 38 years of experience in roofing and is a certified GAF roofing installer. Therefore, he is required to meet the highest standards in the roofing industry.

Unlike most home-improvement companies, Clear Choice does not require a deposit. Because the company has little overhead, it can afford to keep prices low. In addition, McGonigle provides all estimates himself.

McGonigle and his company also can help if you have missing shingles or hail damage. Often you can qualify for a new roof through your homeowner’s insurance.

Clear Choice Home Improvements is celebrating its 21st anniversary. The company’s longevity is a testament to its honest, no-nonsense approach to doing business.

In addition to roofing, Clear Choice offers replacement windows and siding. The company has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, and consistently gets high marks from Angie’s List. All work is guaranteed and Clear Choice is licensed, bonded and insured.

For a free no-pressure estimate, call Clear Choice at (614) 879-6778 or visit clearchoicehomeimprovements.com. Military members, active or retired, will receive a $250 rebate from the manufacturer.